Himachal Pradesh Mandates Display of Owner's ID at Eateries Following UP's Example

Himachal Pradesh has mandated that all shopkeepers and street vendors display identification, following Uttar Pradesh's lead. Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh emphasized the need for food hygiene and transparency, addressing local concerns about rising migrants. This initiative also follows protests advocating for registration of outside workers.

In a significant policy shift, the Himachal Pradesh government has mandated that all shopkeepers and street vendors, particularly those operating eateries, display their identification. This decision, announced by Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, comes in response to local concerns regarding the increasing number of migrants in the state.

Minister Singh stated that the requirement was introduced to ensure that hygienic food is sold and to address “apprehensions” expressed by residents. The directive follows a similar initiative by the Uttar Pradesh government, which recently required food establishments to display the names and addresses of their operators. Singh emphasized that street vendors must show ID cards issued by the street vendor's committee to promote accountability and food safety.

The policy aims to improve public health standards and boost transparency among food sellers. Singh mentioned that hygiene inspections would also be conducted by the food supplies department to ensure compliance with health regulations.

This move has emerged against a backdrop of protests by Hindu organizations calling for the registration of outside workers, sparked by tensions over the demolition of unauthorized mosque structures. The protests highlighted local calls for licenses for street vendors to be issued only to residents, reflecting concerns about a rise in street vendors from the Muslim community.

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As part of broader efforts, the Himachal Pradesh Assembly has established a committee to develop a policy for street vendors, which includes prominent members from both the Congress and BJP parties. The committee aims to create a structured approach to vendor registration and operational guidelines.